Elise Brewerton

CHRIS Pitman has conquered challenges a woman a third of her age would be proud of.

Now the 62-year-old, from Hulbert Road, Bedhampton, has been nominated for The News’ Woman of the Year Awards for her inspirational physical and fundraising achievements.

The deadline for nominations is midnight tomorrow so make sure the women you admire don’t miss out.

They can be from all walks of life – from incredible businesswoman to amazing mums.

Also, we want to hear about courageous women who have battled against the odds, as well as women in education and health who go above and beyond the call of duty.

Chris, a swimming instructor, came within touching distance of the French coast when she made her bid to become the oldest woman to swim the English Channel.

She may not have made it, but her continued fundraising for the British Heart Foundation and Help for Heroes, prompted Paula Orton, who is sponsoring the event, to nominate her.

Paula, the owner of Bodyworks, in Havant, said: ‘Chris is an amazing individual.

‘She has always been an active lady who thrives on challenges and loves encouraging people to partake in sport.

‘Chris has a pacemaker which makes these feats even more impressive.

‘In August this year Chris had her pacemaker replaced and has recovered well, although she moaned about not being able to be as active as normal.

‘Chris is such a wonderful woman, full of cheer and enthusiasm and always so willing to help others. She truly is an inspiration.’

Paula decided to support the Woman of the Year Awards which takes place at The Marriott hotel, North Harbour, on November 8, because our values chime exactly with hers.

She said: ‘I’m really inspired by amazing ladies who go out of their way to help others and work hard to achieve their goals.’

NOMINATION:

The categories for The News Woman of the Year Awards 2013 are:

· Women in community, charity or voluntary sector

· Best success story

· Best online businesswomen

· Women in fashion

· Mum of the year

· Women in the arts

· Women in education

· Most inspirational woman

· Women to watch

· Woman of courage

· Young women award

· Readers’ choice award

· Business women of the year

To nominate – not vote – for any of the categories above, e-mail your choices, using the subject ‘The News Woman of the Year’ to newsdesk@thenews.co.uk – please include your name, your nomination, the category, reason for your nomination, and a daytime telephone contact number.